October 4, 2022

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Impeccable time management is key to event success. Your keynote’s timing depends on their schedule and the rest of the agenda. So, should you ever consider a meal-time speaker?

While typically guaranteeing higher attendance, meal-time keynotes are challenging, with attendees eager to socialize and network. A general rule of thumb? Never have your keynote present while guests are eating.

Other helpful tips:

? Get your speaker there for meal service. It’s an excellent opportunity to generate excitement, especially with celebrities.

? Consider pre-set salads or family-style courses to save on serving time.

? Ensure wait staff stops clearing ALL dishes before the speech to eliminate awkward noise.

? Serve coffee/tea before the speaker takes the stage.

? Consider your speaker’s message. Is it too heavy? Would a humorist or inspirational speaker lighten the mood? Both can work depending on your theme and how the rest of the schedule is balanced.

? Evening speakers compete against fading attention spans after a long day followed by food and drink. Ensure your speaker is energetic and entertaining.

? Feeding your keynote, too? Serve salad, fruits/vegetables, whole grain foods, or Omega-3-rich salmon (all pack a healthy punch). Avoid fatty/fried foods, dairy, beans, alcohol, and carbonated drinks.

? If necessary, shorten your keynote’s presentation. Better to have 30 minutes of full attention than an hour of distracted eating time.

The payoff:

? Your speaker has the audience’s full attention.

? Your audience is satisfied and engaged.

Have you scheduled a keynote during meal time? Share your planning tips in the COMMENTS below.